Spurs face Newcastle on Saturday with only Emmanuel Adebayor available to choose from in the striker department, however, he has only just returned from international duty with Togo at the African Cup of Nations.

Dembele has been in good form for Tottenham this season and insists he will use his versatility and revert to playing up front and hopes Spurs will not miss the goals Defoe have provided.

On whether he will play as a striker, Dembele told Sky Sports: "Of course, if the manager thinks that is the best option, why not?

"It's obvious that he's [Defoe] a very important player for us, he's scored a lot of important goals for us and has the character as well.

"He's very important in our team so it's not very easy for us right now."

Villas-Boas is able to call upon new signing Lewis Holtby, a player that has impressed during his short time at White Hart Lane and Dembele is pleased with the impact the Germany international has had.

"In the last two games that he has come in he has done very well," Dembele added.